Regional businesses surveyed on A120 dualling campaign
Businesses across the East of England are being surveyed over the A120 dualling proposals between Braintree and the A12 in support of the campaign to secure investment for the long-awaited and much-needed dualling scheme. The survey, which has been sent out this week, was developed by the Essex Chambers of Commerce, Essex County Council and Witham MP, Priti Patel, whose constituency this section of the A120 runs through, asks businesses for their views on the proposals to dual the A120 and the impact that the current single-carriageway stretch has on their business. Businesses are also being asked to register to become A120 Campaign Champions to help showcase the benefits of the dualling scheme.
The A120 connects Stansted airport with Harwich port and is the only major strategic road in the country connecting two major international hubs with a single-carriageway stretch. The proposed dualling scheme will add £2.2 billion in gross value to the economy, support the creation of up to 20,000 jobs, reduce traffic through local villages and reduce accidents.
Priti Patel, Member of Parliament for Witham, said: “The A120 between Braintree and the junction with the A12 at Marks Tey is one of the most congested and dangerous roads in the country. The road is not fit for purpose and dualling the road will have significant benefits to our economy, environment and road safety. Ten years ago an opportunity to dual the A120 was ditched by the then Government. We now need to do all we can to make the strongest case possible for the current Government to include investing in the A120 in the next strategic road investment programme.”
Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Infrastructure said: “The A120 is an essential road for Essex residents, but it also holds the key to unlocking the County’s and the UK’s economic and housing potential. In its current form, this stretch of road does not have the capacity to meet current or future vehicle demands. Our proposed dual carriageway will address this and unlock economic growth and other benefits to businesses and local communities equating to £4.5 million for every £1 million spent. Therefore, we should all get behind this scheme and ensure those making decisions about funding are in no doubt about its importance”.
David Burch, Director of Policy at Essex Chambers of Commerce said: “Whether you are running a SME or a major company, access to a good road network is essential to the success of your business and the A120 is a vital part of Essex’s network. The unfortunate fact, though, is that our members tell us that the road isn’t fit for purpose and costs them both time and money through delays and closures. Essex Chambers are pleased, therefore, to be working with Priti Patel MP and Cllr Kevin Bentley to keep up the pressure on the Government to bring forward the necessary investment to ensure both the businesses and residents of Essex get a road that is reliable for every user of it”.
Businesses can complete the survey and register to become an A120 Campaign Champion via the web link:
https://www.essexchambers.co.uk/a120_braintree_to_a12_scheme_business_survey.htm